Brimah, the 7-foot freshman from Ghana, became a starter in late December and started 15 of 18 conference games.

Although still a raw talent, he is a natural shot blocker and made a major impact in that area. Brimah, although limited to 15.3 minutes a game, was third in the league with 2.5 blocks, trailing only Jackson (2.9) and Thomas (2.7).

Brimah averaged 4.0 points and 2.8 rebounds, but was more productive in the AAC (5.1, 3.4).

Coaches who faced UConn in January, and again later in the season, were impressed by Brimah's development, so his selection was no surprise.

"He is getting better by the minute," Brown said on Feb. 23.

Said Louisville's Rick Pitino: "He has gotten a lot better, and he's going to be a great one when it's all said and done."

Brimah's breakthrough game came against Central Florida on Jan. 11, when he had 20 points and eight rebounds.

The all-rookie team was filled with big men, including Memphis' Austin Nichols, a favorite for rookie of the year honors, and John Egbunu and Chris Perry, both of South Florida. The lone guard was Louisville's Terry Rozier.

AAC individual awards to be presented Wednesday include player the year, rookie of the year, defensive player of the year, scholar athlete of the year, coach of the year, most improved player, sixth man and sportsmanship awards.

Napier was also named District I player of the year by U.S. Basketball Writers for the second year in a row. Ryan Boatright and Quinnipiac's Ike Azotam were named to the 10-player All District I team, which covers New England.

Hamilton At Barclays

Daniel Hamilton, UConn's highest-touted incoming recruit, will play at the Jordan Brand Classic, a national high school all-star game at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn on April 18 at 7 p.m.

Hamilton, a 6-7 wing player, plays for St. John Bosco in Bellflower, Calif., and committed to UConn in May. He signed a nonbinding financial aid agreement in November, but has continued to say he is solidly committed to UConn. He attended the Huskies' game against Maryland at the Barclays Center on Nov. 8.

The Jordan Brand Classic features 26 of the top high school players from throughout the country.

MEMPHIS — The first American Athletic Conference men's basketball tournament is here, and it caps an inaugural season of celebration. The emerging league prominently featured terrific guards and coaches.